Ithuba, a renowned South African operator, has secured the exclusive rights to run Uganda’s national lottery for the next decade, starting from August 8, 2023. This significant partnership is set to play a crucial role in financing the infrastructure for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.
The National Lottery, officially unveiled at the Grand Speke Resort in Munyonyo, is more than just a game of chance—it’s a funding powerhouse for the nation’s development ambitions. Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, at the launch, highlighted the dual benefit of the lottery, “We envision the National Lottery as a key contributor to our nation’s development goals, supporting vital sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. I have directed that this financial year’s proceeds are earmarked for the development of sports infrastructure as Uganda prepares for AFCON 2027,” he remarked.
With the government’s strategic use of these funds, substantial investments are being directed towards the construction of new sports facilities, including a planned stadium in Hoima estimated at Shs380b. This push is not just for the love of the game but a calculated move to prepare East Africa for its first AFCON hosting gig since Ethiopia’s turn in 1976.
The Bigger Picture: Lottery vs. Sports Betting
While both the National Lottery and sports betting fall under the gambling umbrella, they serve distinct roles in Ugandan society. The National Lottery, operating under the strict governance of the Lotteries and Gaming Board, funnels a significant portion of its proceeds to social and charitable causes. In contrast, sports betting offers entertainment with potential financial rewards, relying more on one’s knowledge and analysis of sports than mere chance.
Under the stewardship of Ithuba, the National Lottery is committed to transparency and ethical practices. Bob Kabonero, chairman of Ithuba Uganda, emphasized this commitment, “We have endeavoured to uphold international best practices to ensure our operations are transparent and promote significant benefits that contribute to Uganda’s development and transformation,” he stated.
The impact of the lottery extends beyond infrastructure; it touches individual lives deeply. Chairmane Mabuza, CEO of Ithuba Uganda, shared a moving anecdote, “I’m still deeply moved by the story of Phionah, a mother of two who recently won Shs8m in our lottery,” Mabuza recalled. “She came to our offices with a dream of owning land, and her win made that possible. It’s inspiring to see how many people use their winnings positively, and we hope to hear more of these stories.”
A National Commitment to Growth
With an initial investment of $14 million, Ithuba Uganda is not just betting on individual wins but on the nation’s prosperity. The hope is that, through the National Lottery, more citizens will find themselves in positions to change their lives and, by extension, contribute to the country’s economic growth.
As Uganda steps into the limelight with the upcoming AFCON and continues to leverage the National Lottery for development, the stakes are high, but so are the potential rewards. The game is set, the numbers are rolling, and for many Ugandans, the National Lottery represents a ticket to dreams they dare to imagine.
